Young Poles Reject Minimum Wage Offers, Demand Higher Pay
The youngest generation on Poland’s labor market is increasingly unwilling to accept minimum wage jobs. According to GUS and analysis by Grupa Progres, young workers expect a better career start, reflecting both rising costs of living and higher wage benchmarks.
In the second quarter of 2025, 940,000 people aged 15–24 were employed, while 120,000 remained jobless, leaving youth unemployment at about 11 percent – well above the national average. With Poland’s minimum wage at PLN 4,666 gross, the gap with the March 2025 median salary of PLN 9,056 explains why entry-level offers fail to attract candidates.
“Young Poles know the real market wages and want more than the legal minimum. If expectations aren’t met, they walk away or seek alternative income,” said Joanna Dargiewicz of Grupa Progres.
Experts note that employers seeking to attract young talent must go beyond pay, offering flexibility and genuine development opportunities.
(WBJ)
